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Charisms for Catholics

Jill Simons

How effective would a company be where only about 5% of people knew their job description? Not very. And yet this is what we see in the Church right now - many people know they are a part of the Body of Christ but very few have a clear sense of what role they play - if they even realize they play a role at all. Charisms for Catholics helps you identify, value, and invest in where the Holy Spirit is moving in your life and to partner with Him to build the Church by embracing your specific role in the Body of Christ. Produced by Many Parts Ministries.

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S3 · E193
September 3 · 14 min
Ep 193 - Is Identity Usually Linear?
In this episode of "Charisms for Catholics," Jill Simons explores the question, "Is identity always linear?" Drawing on insightful analogies between identity formation and physical fitness, Jill discusses how investing in your spiritual life can help you maintain and grow your sense of identity, but also acknowledges that setbacks and non-linear progress are common. She examines how personal struggles or injustices can impact our sense of self, the ongoing need for healing, and the vital role of divine grace in our journeys. Whether you're moving steadily forward or experiencing detours, you'll find encouragement and practical wisdom for embracing and strengthening your identity in Christ! 00:57 - Comparing Identity to Physical Fitness 02:15 - Exceptions and Nonlinear Identity Journeys 03:32 - Building "Mental Hygiene" for Identity Maintenance 04:09 - The Limitlessness of Growth in Identity 05:14 - How Pain and Injustice Affect Identity 12:45 - Encouragement for Continuing Your Identity Journey Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.
S3 · E193
August 27 · 18 min
Ep 192 - How Coaches and Volunteers Make Our Mission a Reality
In this episode of "Charisms for Catholics," host Jill Simons explores the essential role that coaches and volunteers play in making charism discernment accessible within the Church! She delves into the different programs offered by Many Parts Ministries, from entry-level study groups to comprehensive volunteer and coach certifications, all designed to equip individuals to accompany others through their discernment journey. Jill also shares her personal experience in developing these resources, emphasizing the importance of local leadership and one-on-one accompaniment to help people identify their spiritual gifts. This episode also highlights how you can get involved, whether by becoming trained leaders or by advocating for charism discernment programs within their own parishes! 01:03 — Launch of "What You Carry" Study: Entry-Level Accompaniment 02:50 — Volunteer Training Programs and Small Group Accompaniment 04:16 — Jill Simons' Personal Journey: Learning and Informal Charism Accompaniment 06:44 — Impact and Role of Volunteers in Local Communities 10:04 — Volunteer Accompaniment Training Program Overview 11:13 — Spiritual Director and Coach Certification Program 14:51 — Benefits for Spiritual Directors and Coaches: Practical Application 16:14 — Grassroots Parish Engagement and Impact Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.
S3 · E190
August 20 · 25 min
Ep 191 - Responding to Neurodivergence in the Body of Christ with Ginny Kochis
In this episode of Charisms for Catholics, host Jill Simons is joined by Ginny Kochis, a neurodivergent parent coach and author, to discuss how the Church can better understand and welcome neurodivergent individuals! Ginny shares her personal journey as a mother navigating her children's diverse neurological needs, the gifts neurodivergent people bring to faith communities, and practical ways Catholic parishes can create more inclusive spaces. Together, they reflect on the importance of identity in Christ, overcoming judgment, and celebrating the unique contributions of all members of the Body of Christ. Ginny also introduces her book, "Quirky Catholic: Navigating Neurodivergence with Faith and Joy," which lifts up saints who displayed neurodivergent traits and offers encouragement for families seeking holiness in every circumstance! 00:18 — Introducing Ginny Kochis: Neurodivergent Parent Coach 01:26 — Navigating Unexpected Parenting Challenges 02:53 — Processing Diagnosis and Grief 04:43 — Supporting Other Moms in Catholic Spaces 07:02 — Unique Strengths of Neurodivergent Children 13:39 — Overcoming Judgment and Embracing Accommodations 23:10 — Saints as Models for Neurodivergent Catholics Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.
S3 · E190
August 13 · 13 min
Ep 190 - Helping Incarcerated People Discern their Charisms
In this episode of Charisms for Catholics, Jill Simons shares the story behind the new "Where the Spirit Is" resource, specially designed for prison ministry. Born from Jill's personal experiences and long-standing passion for charisms, this initiative aims to help incarcerated men and women discover their spiritual gifts and find purpose, even within prison walls. She discusses the challenges of creating an accessible, non-digital assessment tailored for the unique circumstances of incarceration, the desire to serve all denominations, and the hope that this tool will empower both prison ministers and those they serve. This episode will encourage you to spread the word, pray for prison ministry, and join the movement to bring the freedom of the Holy Spirit to those most in need! 01:32 - Personal Struggle and the Role of Charisms 02:57 - Inspiration for Prison Ministry Resources 05:15 - Challenges Creating Charism Resources for Prisons 06:47 - Designing Accessible, Paper-Based Assessments 09:02 - Distribution and Application Process 12:46 - The Resource "Where the Spirit Is" and Closing Reflections Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.
S3 · E189
August 6 · 34 min
Ep 189 - Comparing Every List of Charisms We Can Find
In this episode of Charisms for Catholics, Jill Simons dives deep into the many different lists of charisms or spiritual gifts used across Catholic ministries! Drawing on her experience at Many Parts Ministries, Jill compares and contrasts seven popular lists—including biblical sources, the Catherine of Siena Institute's Called and Gifted program, diocesan inventories, and charismatic renewal approaches—to highlight why certain gifts are included or combined, and how these choices shape our understanding of the Holy Spirit's work in the Church. Focusing on clarity and practical discernment, she encourages listeners to find the resources that serve them best, emphasizing that diversity in charism frameworks is both expected and valuable within the Body of Christ. Whether you're new to charism discernment or looking to deepen your understanding, this episode provides a thoughtful look at how different models can help you discover and live out your God-given gifts! 00:39 — Introduction to Charism Lists and Models 03:20 — Overview of Seven Popular Charism Lists 04:49 — Distinguishing Isaiah Gifts from Charisms 06:02 — Grouping of Charisms: Romans and Corinthians 10:25 — Comparison with Catherine of Siena Institute's 24 Charisms 12:13— Diocese of Cleveland's Parish-Focused Charism List 22:01— Digital Communications and Contemporary Charisms Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.
S3 · E188
July 30 · 18 min
Ep 188 - What to Do When You Have No Idea How to Test a Charism
In this episode of Charisms for Catholics, host Jill Simons focuses on how Catholics can discern and test charisms—spiritual gifts—especially when they aren't sure how to do so. She discuses the unique challenge of testing "lifestyle" or "ways of being" charisms such as voluntary poverty and celibacy, which may not provide obvious external confirmation. She also discuses practical, approachable strategies, including using one's calendar to identify opportunities for discernment and offering upcoming life activities to the Holy Spirit for testing. Tune in to explore the importance of giving God space to move, attentiveness to His responses, and finding support through spiritual mentors when needed! 00:56 – Introducing the Challenge: How Do You Test a Charism You Don't Know How to Test? 01:38 – Hard-to-Test Charisms: Wisdom, Knowledge, Voluntary Poverty & Celibacy 03:15 – Fruits of Detachment: How Lifestyle Charisms Amplify Others 05:17 – Universal Guideline: Use Your Calendar for Discernment 06:45 – Trusting the Holy Spirit: Offering Upcoming Days for Testing 10:00 – The Key to Discernment: Pay Attention When Testing 13:03 – Real-Life Example: Discovering the Charism of Knowledge Over Lunch Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.
S3 · E190
July 23 · 15 min
Ep 187 - The Five Questions: What scope is God giving me for my mission?
In this episode of "Charisms for Catholics," we delve into discerning the specific scope that God is inviting each person to embrace in their mission. We discuss the importance of finding both confidence and peace in understanding the unique area of influence entrusted by God, whether it be within a family, small group, parish, or even a broader platform. Tune in to explore the significance of naming and valuing one's current mission, the spiritual fruit of peace that flows from this clarity, and the variety of tools and resources available to assist us in this journey of discernment! 01:01 - The Fifth Essential Question—What Scope is God Giving You for Your Mission? 01:48 - Embracing Peace by Accepting Your God-Given Responsibilities 02:29 - Ground Rule—Bigger Scope Doesn't Mean More Importance 03:23 - The Holy Spirit's Desire to Move at Every Level of Influence 04:39 - Recognizing That Scope Is Not Static and May Change with Seasons 06:16 - The Value and Spiritual Significance of Small Scopes 11:56 - Peace and Joy Found in Accepting the Unique Scope of Your Mission Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.
S3 · E185
July 16 · 12 min
Ep 186 - The Five Questions: What is my Season in life?
In this episode of "Charisms for Catholics," we focus on discerning one's current season in life as a key aspect of understanding how to live out one's calling and utilize spiritual gifts or charisms. One concept discussed is how different stages—such as childhood, young adulthood, marriage, religious life, or parenthood—shape both God's invitations and the opportunities available for ministry and service. We explore the importance of recognizing the practical realities of one's season and aligning expectations and commitments accordingly, rather than comparing oneself to the perceptions or opinions of others. Tune in to delve into personal discernment, self-awareness, and vocation-centered decision-making help clarify where the Holy Spirit is drawing each individual within their present circumstances! 00:46 — Introducing the Five Questions and Mission Clarity 01:41 — Seasons of Life and the Vocational Journey 02:55 — Varieties of Vocational Seasons: Marriage, Infertility, and Religious Life 03:35 — God's Call is Grounded in Reality 05:03 — Discerning Commitments According to Your Current Season 07:15 — Personal Story: Ministry, Motherhood, and Internal Discernment 10:23 — Prioritizing Vocation While Discerning Charisms and Commitments Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.
S3 · E185
July 9 · 17 min
Ep 185 - The Five Questions: What is my Passion?
In this episode of "Charisms for Catholics," Jill centers the conversation on the question, "What is my passion?" One concept discussed is how passion, particularly when aligned with individual charisms, helps clarify where and how a person is called to serve within the Church. We also explore our uniqueness, how individuals with similar charisms can express them through vastly different passions and missions and the importance of reflecting on passion alongside identity and charisms to achieve greater mission clarity. This episode highlights key questions that help us discern further and find mission clarity through charisms! 00:51 – Introducing the Question: What Is My Passion? 01:53 – Secular Perspectives on Passion Versus Skill 02:25 – The Unique Expression of Charisms and Passion 03:35 – Mercy, Passion, and Specific Communities 07:07 – Discerning Passion Within Each Charism 10:13 – Moving From Charism Discovery to Practical Engagement 15:07 – Mission Clarity and Brainstorming Passions Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.
S3 · E184
July 2 · 10 min
Ep 184: The Five Questions: What are my Charisms?
This episode of "Charisms for Catholics," focuses on the essential question, "What are my charisms?" as part of a series exploring five foundational questions for Catholics discerning their spiritual gifts. Host Jill Simons delves into the importance of understanding the big categories of charisms as a starting point for recognizing how the Holy Spirit is active in one's life and where He is inviting further participation in building the Church. She explores the diversity and unique expressions of each charism, emphasizing that discovering and naming one's charisms helps individuals value and invest in their God-given gifts, as well as the challenges of recognizing personal contributions in today's fragmented society and the significance of connecting with those gifts to experience a renewed sense of purpose. If you are interested in your charisms and furthing your discernment journey, you do not want to miss this episode! 00:56 — Introducing the Essential Question: What Are My Charisms? 01:19 — Understanding the Foundational Role of Charisms 02:14 — Diversity Within Charisms: More Than Meets the Eye 03:40 — How to Begin Discerning Your Charisms 05:01 — Rediscovering Purpose in a Fragmented Society 07:19 — Naming, Valuing, and Investing in Your Charisms 09:11 — Moving Forward: Applying Charisms Through Passion, Season, and Scope Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.
S3 · E183
June 25 · 23 min
Ep 183 - The Five Questions: What is my Identity?
In today's episode of Charisms for Catholics, Jill emphasizes the importance of the foundational question of identity for Catholics, exploring why understanding one's identity is vital for living with purpose and peace. Jill explores how often people build their lives on unexamined assumptions about their identity, sourced from relationships, achievements, and struggles, as well as practical tools like the charism assessment and new resources, including the upcoming book "Mission Clarity," designed to help Catholics reflect on who they are in light of their faith. If you're interested in discussing the common challenges in forming a healthy sense of self, spiritual ways to diagnose identity gaps, and encouragement to allow God to heal and strengthen the foundation of identity before building one's mission, this episode is perfect for you! 02:35 — The Foundational Role of Identity 04:33 — Performative Good vs. True Identity 06:23 — The Charism Assessment Approach to Identity 07:32 — Three Organic Sources of Identity: Relationships, Achievements, Struggles 08:38 — Diagnosing Identity through Truth and Church Teaching 13:17 — Building a Seaworthy Foundation Before Mission 16:14 — Overcoming Identity Attachments: A Personal Story Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.
S3 · E177
June 18 · 13 min
Ep 182 - The Five Essential Questions
In this episode of Charisms for Catholics, we focus on the five essential questions that guide the process of charism discernment for Catholics! We discuss how these questions move beyond simply identifying spiritual gifts to include deeper reflection on identity, passion, life season, and the unique mission God is calling each person to. A key theme in this episode is the importance of specificity in discerning not just what one's charisms are, but also how, where, and for whom those gifts are meant to be used. We also emphasize how addressing all five questions leads to greater clarity and helps prevent burnout by ensuring that service is compatible with one's current life circumstances! 01:16 — Seeking New Insights from God About Charisms 02:07 — The Five Essential Questions Unveiled 03:26 — Defining the Five Questions for Discernment 05:31 — Considering Season, Passion, and Scope in Discernment 07:20 — Deepening Clarity Beyond Initial Charism Discovery 10:01 — Applying Charism Discernment to Practical Life Scenarios Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.
S3 · E181
June 11 · 29 min
Ep 181 - All About Prophecy: Modes of Receiving Prophetic Words
In this episode of Charisms for Catholics, jill focuses on the different ways Catholics can receive prophetic communication and how to discern whether a word is truly from the Holy Spirit! One concept discussed was the categorization of prophetic experiences into visions and locutions, each with three forms: corporeal, imaginative, and intellectual. Jill also discusses how God can use any of the senses to speak to people, the importance of not discounting unusual modes of reception like physical impressions or dreams, and the value of communal discernment when sharing prophetic words. A key theme from this episode is the "imperfect prophet principle"—emphasizing humility, accurate sharing of what is received, and careful interpretation—so that prophecy serves the body of Christ with clarity and charity. 00:28 — Introduction to Prophecy Part 2 01:27 — Modes of Prophetic Communication 03:36 — Three Types of Visions 09:05 — Three Types of Locutions 13:31 — Summary of Vision and Locution Modalities 14:41— The Role of Dreams and Sensory Impressions 21:23 — The Imperfect Prophet Principle and Discernment Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.
S3 · E180
June 4 · 20 min
Ep 180 - All About Prophecy: Kinds of Prophecy
In this episode of Charisms for Catholics, Jill dives deep into the charism of prophecy, unpacking its different types and how they function within the Catholic tradition. Learn all about the distinctions between prophecy, words of knowledge, and words of wisdom, while also discovering why discernment is essential in understanding prophetic gifts. Drawing from Thomas Aquinas and practical ministry experience, this episode clarifies common confusions about prophecy and highlights how these gifts operate independently of personal holiness. Whether you're discerning your own charisms or eager to understand how God speaks through others, this episode offers clear insights and practical guidance! 00:35 – Introduction to the Charism of Prophecy 01:47 – Three Charisms Related to Prophecy 02:37 – Prophecy as an Umbrella Charism 04:57 – Words of Knowledge Explained 08:01 – Words of Wisdom and Their Distinction 14:30 – Aquinas' Teaching: Charisms and State of Grace 19:28 – Preview of Next Episode: Modes of Prophetic Communication Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.
S3 · E178
May 28 · 19 min
Ep 179 - How Do You Rediscern Your Charisms?
In this episode of Charisms for Catholics, Jill Simons explores the topic of rediscerning your charisms—how to approach reassessment, when it might be necessary, and what to do with new or unchanged results. As life circumstances shift or time passes, it's important to periodically reflect on how the Holy Spirit is working in and through you! Jill shares practical guidelines for when to retake your charism assessment, how to interpret changes (or consistency) in the results, and encourages listeners to use new insights as invitations from God for new missions or renewed faithfulness. The episode also highlights community resources and support for anyone seeking further clarity on their spiritual gifts! 01:11 - When Should You Retake the Charism Assessment? 03:05 - Identity Shifts and Charism Assessment 04:44 - The Importance of Regular Charism Checkups 06:12 - What To Do With New Results 10:00 - a New Charism Emerges 12:57 - Navigating Confusing or Mixed Results Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.
S3 · E176
May 21 · 30 min
Ep 178 - Fire 50: Victory - Heather Khym
In this episode for Fire50, Jill Simons welcomes Heather Khym from the Abiding Together podcast to discuss the theme of victory in the Christian life. The conversation explores what true spiritual victory looks like—rooted in dependence on God rather than self-reliance—and how personal healing, vulnerability, and detachment from old beliefs lead to deeper union with Christ. Jill and Heather share personal stories of overcoming fear and anxiety, highlight the power and necessity of community and accompaniment, and offer encouragement for those seeking transformational healing. The episode also touches on practical steps for living from the victory Christ has already won, featuring insights on trust, prayer, and the richness of scripture in the journey of faith! 01:14 - Introducing Heather Khym & Her Ministry 03:33 - Understanding Victory and Dependence on God 07:24 - Personal Story: Moving from Self-Reliance to Trust 12:54 - The Grafting Metaphor: Detachment and Deep Union 20:42 - Victory over Fear: Healing and Freedom in Christ 25:47 - Encouragement for Those Struggling to Let Go Enroll in our Fire 50 program at https://www.manypartsministries.com/fire-50 Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.
S3 · E177
May 14 · 39 min
Ep 177 - Fire 50: Boldness - Rachel Herbeck
In this episode for Fire50, host Jill Simons welcomes Rachel Herbeck, Director of Young Adult Ministry at Renewal Ministries, to discuss what it truly means to live a bold life empowered by the Holy Spirit! Rachel Herbeck shares her personal journey of faith, the transformative power of repentance, and how Renewal Ministries encourages Catholics to step into radical discipleship. Together, they explore practical ways everyday believers—from lawyers to parents—can embrace spiritual boldness without needing to fit into preconceived roles. The conversation also touches on the challenges and miracles Rachel Herbeck has witnessed during her missionary experiences, highlighting how obedience and openness to the Spirit can spark extraordinary change in ordinary lives! 01:09 - Introduction to Renewal Ministries 02:26 - Atypical Catholic Upbringing 04:37 - Personal Encounter and Conversion 07:56 - The Role of Responsibility in Spiritual Growth 12:19 - Defining Boldness and Obedience to the Holy Spirit 18:31 - Testing and Living Out Charisms 32:32 - Boldness in Forgiveness and Interior Transformation Enroll in our Fire 50 program at https://www.manypartsministries.com/fire-50 Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.
S3 · E176
May 7 · 28 min
Ep 176 - Fire 50: Risk - Eric Dooley
In this episode for Fire50, host Jill Simons welcomes Eric Dooley, CTO of Exodus 90, for a compelling conversation about risk, faith, and entrepreneurship. Eric Dooley shares his journey from a childhood love of building to founding Catholic tech projects like Catholify and Vineyard, and ultimately joining Exodus 90. Together with his wife, Jenny, he navigates the challenges and rewards of serving the Church through technology, entrepreneurship, and family life. They discuss discerning risks as a family, the power of community when pursuing bold callings, and the transformative impact of stepping into the unknown with the Holy Spirit's guidance. Eric Dooley also dives into Exodus 90's approach to spiritual risk and growth, highlighting stories of men who have encountered real change by saying yes to discomfort and deeper intimacy with Christ. Whether you're curious about faith-based entrepreneurship, seeking to grow in trust, or exploring new ways to serve the Church, this episode offers encouragement and practical insights for embracing risk with courage and conviction! 02:02 - Discovering a Passion for Building and Faith Tech 05:23 - The Risks of Faith Tech Entrepreneurship 06:46 - Discerning Risk as a Married Couple 12:23 - Life Without the Corporate Grind 16:14 - Transformative Power of Exodus 90 23:57 - Everyday Risk and Spiritual Growth 26:32 - Where to Learn More about These Apostolates Enroll in our Fire 50 program at https://www.manypartsministries.com/fire-50 Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.
S3 · E175
April 30 · 29 min
Ep 175 - Fire 50: Obedience - Monica & Renzo Ortega
In this episode for Fire50, host Jill Simons welcomes Renzo Ortega and Monica Ortega, the husband-and-wife team behind Two Become Family, to discuss the transformative role of obedience within marriage and ministry. Together, they share the story of how their ministry evolved from a humble blog for former youth group students to a multifaceted mission helping couples restore confidence in marriage and family life. Drawing from personal experience and spiritual insight, the Ortegas delve into what it means to unite the will of spouses to God's will, embracing self-gift, humility, and authentic leadership rooted in virtue and grace. With practical reflections on discerning obedience, supporting one another's charisms, and dreaming together as a couple, this episode offers encouragement and practical wisdom for anyone seeking to grow in holiness—no matter their vocation or season of life! 01:16 - Origins of Two Become Family Ministry 02:59 - Transition from Blog to Broader Ministry 05:14 - Understanding Obedience in Marriage 08:27 - The Husband's Disposition and Leadership 11:25 - The Wife's Experience and the Power of Obedience 22:14 - Obedience, Dreaming Together, and Serving as a Couple Enroll in our Fire 50 program at https://www.manypartsministries.com/fire-50 Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.
S3 · E174
April 23 · 33 min
Ep 174 - Fire 50: Humility - Sr. Elfie Rosario
In this episode fpr Fire50, host Jill Simons sits down with Sister Elfie, also known as the "Happy Nun," to explore the virtue of humility and its place in spiritual growth and vocation! Sister Elfie shares her personal journey from aspiring to motherhood to answering God's call as a Salesian Sister, embracing spiritual motherhood and finding fulfillment in serving young people. The conversation delves into discerning God's will, surrendering personal desires, and the daily practice of humility through patience, identity in Christ, and receiving divine mercy. Sister Elfie offers practical advice on growing in humility and highlights how God gently leads each of us, meeting us where we are and inviting us deeper into trust and detachment. Whether you're discerning a vocation or seeking to grow in virtue, this heartfelt episode offers encouragement and wisdom for every stage of the journey! 05:03 - Spiritual Motherhood and the Transformation of Desire 06:47 - Journey of Surrender and Humility 10:23 - Balancing Identity and False Humility 13:46 - Patience as a Pathway to Humility 19:11 - Vocation Ministry and Overcoming Insecurity 26:14 - Learning Deeper Detachment and Trust Enroll in our Fire 50 program at https://www.manypartsministries.com/fire-50 Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.

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